November Sharing Time: Thankful for the Promises

This sharing time will help the children discover some of the blessings that
are promised to them by Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Preparation: Get a shallow box that has a lid (a plastic box with a snap
on lid would be ideal). Fill it with sand or clean kitty litter. Obtain a small
garden trowel or rake, or a plastic spoon and fork.

Find a number of objects to represent things we are thankful for (see list of
examples below). Bury the objects in the sand.

Presentation: Explain to the children that an archeologist is someone
who digs in the ground to find evidence of people or animals that lived a long
time ago. Tell them that you are going to pretend to be archeologists to try to
discover some of the blessings that Heavenly Father has promised us.

Invite a child come dig up an object with the trowel or utensils. As soon as
they find something, have them show it to the other children and discuss what
it could represent. Sing songs that reinforce the blessing. Possible items
could be:

Small pre-wrapped food item. All of our blessings such as food, water,
and good health come from our Father in Heaven. Sing "For Health and Strength,"
Children's Songbook, p.21.

Doll shoe or clothes. We are grateful to Heavenly Father for our
clothes, homes, and family. Sing, "Thanks to Our Father, CS, p. 20.

Small card with picture of Christ. Our Father in Heaven promised us a
Savior, so we can have eternal life. Jesus Christ is our older brother and our
Savior. Sing "Did Jesus Really Live Again?" CS, p. 64.

Sacrament cup. One of the blessings we receive as a member of the Church
is the opportunity to partake of the sacrament. Doing this renews our baptismal
covenants and helps us remember Jesus Christ.

Scripture pencil or highlighter. We are thankful for the scriptures.
They help us know Heavenly Father's plan for us. Sing "Search, Ponder, and
Pray," CS, p. 109.

Missionary Tag. The Missionaries are a wonderful blessing. They teach
many people the truth of the gospel.

CTR ring. We know we can live with Heavenly Father again when we choose
the right. Sing, "Choose the Right Way," CS, p. 160.

Testify that Heavenly Father loves us very much. He has promised us many
blessings and we should show our gratitude to him by the way we live.